Purpose: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy
and long-term survival rate of three-unit fixed partial dentures (FPDs) made from
lithium disilicate–based core ceramic. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one threeunit
FPDs were placed in 19 patients to replace single lost teeth in the esthetic area,
following a study protocol that took clinical, esthetic, and radiologic aspects into
consideration. Each case was reviewed at 1 week following placement, at 6 months,
and then annually for 10 years. Statistical analysis was performed using Kaplan-
Meier survival analysis. Results: Out of the 19 patients, 14.3% presented reversible
postoperative sensitivity. Recession was observed in 24% of dental posts, and
7.1% presented marginal discoloration. Treatment did not increase either Bleeding
or Plaque Index scores at prepared teeth; secondary caries did not appear either.
The restorations’ survival rate at the 10-year follow-up was 71.4%; six FPDs had
fractured and one debonded. Conclusions: Fracture failure rate was 28.6% after
10 years; a high percentage corresponded to connector fractures and occurred
during the first 5 years. Lithium disilicate glass-ceramic FPDs present a higher risk of
fracture than standard therapies (metal-ceramic) or other more recently developed
ceramic materials. The prognosis for survival improves for Class I occlusion and
nonparafunctional patients. Int J Prosthodont 2013;26:175–180. doi: 10.11607/ijp.3045

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